Sad Face: My Role at Microsoft Advertising Has Been “Eliminated”

7 years (2555 days) to the day after I walked into Microsoft in London to help launch adCenter back in 2005, I was told this morning that my role has been “eliminated” in a round of lay offs.

I’ve been told by HR that it’s fine to talk about my new job search on social networks and my blog as the termination has nothing to do with my performance in the job. So as a true social media aficionado, I’m letting you all know that while I’m sad it’s come to this after creating millions of engagements online, writing thousands of blog posts, interviewing hundreds of industry luminaries and speaking at many, many conferences around the world, I have nothing but fantastic memories of working at Microsoft Advertising – 50 of which I’ll write about and publish here in the next couple of weeks.

I’d like to thank all the fabulous colleagues, partners and friends in the industry I’ve met and worked with over the years. It’s been a blast and I can’t wait to see what turns up for me (and you all) next.

Lastly, thanks to my wife Ashley for her amazing support throughout the years. Her positiveness, drive and enthusiasm for all the work I’ve created over the years has been an inspiration and really kept me going.

Mel, I’m sorry to hear your role has been eliminated. That especially sucks since you recently relocated to the US to take the new role. I wish you the best of luck with your job hunt. Any and everyone company would be fortunate to have you on-board so I’m sure that you’ll get snatched up quickly.

Wow Mel, sorry to hear that, and I obviously can relate. Completely ridiculous for a company to let someone with your talent and background go. Makes zero sense, and just another reason the folks at MS just don’t get it.

You’ll have no problem landing elsewhere and wish you the best of luck. I’ll certainly keep my eyes peeled.

Mel, sorry to hear about it. If it’s any condolence, I’ve known quite a few people that have been laid off by MSFT and all have landed in better places. I’m sure someone with your level of visibility and experience will have no problem going on to doing great things else where.

Mel, I’m so very sorry that this has happened to you. One thing for sure, you’re one of countless numbers around the world-small consolation right now I know. With your abilities and drive you’ll be fine. You come from tough stock, remember? Best wishes from a cousin and a fan!

Mel,
You’ve a bright future for sure. My impression of you while at Microsoft was that you were promoting company solutions that were not as visionary or thoughtful as you are. There is a huge landscape of really cool enablers for brands, and I am very confident that you will write the next chapter in short order. In the meantime, best wishes to you and your lovely family.

Mel, There is life after Microsoft. Being laid off from Microsoft was the best thing that ever happened to me. Had they not laid me off I would probably still be there. Be open to new horizons. You will be surprised what is out there.

Hi Mel, while I’ve not had the opportunity to meet you yet, i can tell from what I’ve seen on the social networks that you’ve worked your rocks off (pardon the expression!) for Microsoft, and I wish you the best in whatever the future holds.

I wasn’t aware of your upcoming book, so I will keep a look out for it being published with interest.

Ah Mel that’s a shame you have done an amazing job at shifting the perception of Microsoft as a advertising partner and certainly done some amazing interviews. But I’m sure you will be well placed to make the next career move and great to see you are now 110% behind your new book.

Mel, so very sorry to learn of the layoff @ Microsoft. These things happen sometimes in life, but honestly speaking “when one door closes, another one opens….” You will have so many other opportunities I am sure, and always remember that you are well liked and respected in the business. Go ROCK STAR, GO!!….You’ll have all the love and support from Ashley and Maggie (and me) too. xx

Sorry to hear that Mel 🙁
Just remember though that everything happens for a reason and I’m sure you will start an exciting new chapter in your career.
Our door is always open for you if you fancy a move back to UK.

Hi Mel – really couldn’t believe it when I saw this?! You have been amazing and it’s been an honour to have worked with (and have been interviewed by!) you. Obviously people will be queuing to snap you up. Best of luck and love to Ashley and Maggie xx

Hi Mel, That’s really awful to hear. I’m a reporter at Business Insider and have been doing some coverage on what’s going on at Microsoft’s ad department. Would love to chat to you (or anyone else who has insights). Please shoot me an email at LStampler@businessinsider.com.

Thanks Laura. Not commenting any futher than this blog post. I still work for Microsoft for the next 60 days as I try and work out the next stage in my career. The wife would murder me if I messed up any severance package! 😉 As I say, I have nothing but good memories and am looking forward to my next chapter.

Don’t really know you personally but we met once at a conference, I asked for help and you immediately did your utmost to help me out. Although I’m sorry to hear what happened at Microsoft, I’m sure that this will open up a lot of great opportunities for you.

Just a quick note, you might remember me, I’m Matthew from Malta. On the day you had presented, bing’s homepage was displaying a picture of Malta.

Can’t tell you how disappointed I was to hear this. You’ve been a great mentor of mine here at Microsoft and I learned a great deal. Including how to drink far too many pints in Victoria, Shepherd’s Market, Cannes and NYC to name but a few.

A big loss for us but as others have said, and a huge gain for the next company who snaps you up.

Sorry to hear that Mel & am shocked at the poor judgement shown by MSFT here. For many of us, you have been the torch bearer (Olympic fever?) of their brand for so many years. Look upon this as a great opportunity.

There is a very deserving company out there whose brand is going to be lit up in lights as soon as you decide to get back into it and join them.

Mel, As I already wrote on your FB, a huge shock to hear this. As someone who is not only one of the most influential industry people I know but also someone who lives and breathes passion in what you do – know that you will land on your feet. Author of your first book should now be a best seller…I’m certainly going to buy it. Good luck in the hunt for that next move, the queue of companies wanting you by now must be around the corner already – so although sad news today, a new and exciting adventure from tomorrow onwards.

[…] Carson wrote a personal blog post explaining: “Wow! 7 years (2555 days) to the day after I walked into Microsoft in London to help launch adCenter back in 2005, I was told this morning that my role has been “eliminated” in a round of lay offs.” […]

Posted 8 years ago

Diego Dagum

Consider yourself lucky, Mel. A professional like you had nothing to do there. Get ready for your next battle and leave losers alone.

Really sorry to hear this. I promise though, it is better on the outside. I imagine you will be out doing bigger and better things in no time. Let me know if you ever want to catch a beer or coffee and catch up.

Mel, I’m shocked to hear this! That’s nuts! You were the face of Microsoft advertising and always provided a happy vibe around the London office. Best of luck with the next chapter of your career. Still can’t understand why this is happening.

[…] the staff who were notified that their jobs were cut yesterday was advertising evangelist Mel Carson, one of the public faces of Microsoft’s ad business. Carson announced his firing on his personal […]

[…] the staff who were notified that their jobs were cut yesterday was advertising evangelist Mel Carson, one of the public faces of Microsoft’s ad business. Carson announced his firing on his personal […]

Posted 8 years ago

Gavin Lennon

Mel – very sorry to hear the news, what rotten luck. Best wishes to you & family (hey, more time for you & Maggie to bond !), and good luck in the future – you will bounce back I do not doubt!

That’s unbelievable Mel. You’re the man in that world. It’s a decision that is probably equalled only by Chelsea Football Club’s decision to sack the most successful manager in the Club’s history (arguably in the world at the time).

Mel, we never met or spoke but your story is inspiring. I would have to believe there will be hundreds of offers coming your way. Every time I leave a position, either on my own or otherwise, I ALWAYS end up in a better position. The future moves in one direction. So lean forward.

Matthew you inspire all three of my sons regularly.
I talk proudly of you to my friends about your achievements.
You have a fantastic supportive wife and of course daughter.
Take time to reflect and research, and I, like many others are looking forward to seeing what opportunities come your way and which path you take.x

Sad to hear, I also once have been a Softie. It’s now time for you to fire up that gnu/emacs editor and start giving back that code and knowledge of yours. Welcome to the dark side, young Padawn. (You know in reality it’s the bright side, but that’s not what MIcrosoft tells you).